%0 Journal Article
%T Relationship partners of transgender individuals:  A qualitative exploration
%A Kayla S. Bolland
%A Lisa F. Platt
%J Journal of Social and Personal Relationships
%@ 1460-3608
%D 2018
%R 10.1177/0265407517709360
%X Relationship partners of transgender-identified individuals have distinctive couple-related experiences that are important to understand. The current qualitative study explored the unique elements of the experiences of those who partner with transgender-identified individuals. A sample of 21 participants who were partnered with a transgender person completed a 1-hr, semi-structured interview. The data yielded five important themes: (1) considerations with physical, sexual, and emotional intimacy; (2) changing sexual orientation labels; (3) safety concerns; (4) marginalization and feelings of isolation; and (5) new appreciation for the gender spectrum. The results show that partners experience considerable change in their lives and relationships as a transgender partner transitions. Implications for future research and how to provide support for this often-overlooked population are provided
%K Gender diversity
%K LGBTQ relationships
%K partners of transgender individuals
%K transgender
%K transgender relationships
%U https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0265407517709360